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Admonish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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admonish

[ədˈmɒnɪʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

instruct with authority

To admonish means to scold or reprimand someone firmly. It is a formal way of warning or advising someone about their behavior.

Synonyms

chastise, rebuke, reprimand, reprove.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
admonish

Used when giving a mild or gentle warning or correction.

  • The teacher admonished the student for talking during the lecture
  • Parents often admonish children to look both ways before crossing the street
reprimand

Used in a formal context to express official disapproval or criticism, usually by someone in authority.

  • The police officer was reprimanded for his unprofessional behavior
  • The board of directors issued a reprimand to the CEO for misconduct
rebuke

Used when expressing strong disapproval or criticism, often in an official or formal manner.

  • The senator received a public rebuke for his controversial remarks
  • His boss rebuked him for not following company policies
chastise

Used when expressing severe criticism or punishment, often verbal.

  • The manager chastised the employee for missing the deadline
  • She was chastised by the public for her inappropriate comments
reprove

Used when expressing mild disapproval or correction, often in a kind or gentle way.

  • She reproved her friend for being late
  • The coach reproved the player for not following the game plan

Examples of usage

  • The teacher admonished the students for being late to class.
  • She admonished her son for not doing his homework on time.
Context #2 | Verb

advise or urge earnestly

To admonish can also mean to advise or urge someone earnestly. It is a way of giving a strong recommendation or counsel.

Synonyms

advise, counsel, recommend, urge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
admonish

Use when you need to warn or reprimand someone firmly, often in a formal or serious manner. It can have a slightly negative connotation.

  • The teacher admonished the student for being late to class.
  • Parents often admonish their children for not doing their homework.
advise

Use when offering guidance or suggestions in a more neutral and friendly manner. It is often used in professional or casual contexts.

  • The doctor advised him to quit smoking.
  • She advised her friend to take the job offer.
urge

Use when encouraging someone to take action promptly or with enthusiasm. It often conveys a sense of urgency or strong encouragement.

  • The coach urged the team to give their best in the final match.
  • I urge you to consider the consequences before making a decision.
counsel

Use when giving more formal or professional advice, often in a legal, psychological, or educational setting.

  • The lawyer counseled his client on the best course of action.
  • She sought counsel from a psychologist to help with her anxiety.
recommend

Use when suggesting something as being particularly good or suitable, often based on personal experience or expertise.

  • The waiter recommended the house special to the guests.
  • She recommended a great book for me to read.

Examples of usage

  • I would like to admonish you to study hard for your exams.
  • He admonished his friend to be careful while driving.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'admonish'

The word 'admonish' originated from the Latin word 'admonere', which means 'to warn'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. Over the centuries, 'admonish' has been used to convey a sense of warning, advising, or scolding in various contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,369, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.